Statutory notice of intention to close Bishop Wulstan
Having considered responses to the proposal to close Bishop Wulstan School, Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet has, with sadness, agreed to publish statutory notices setting out the intention to close the school.
Cllr John Burton, Cabinet Member for Schools, said: “Sadly we have reached this decision which gives me no pleasure whatsoever. I am sure our officers will move forward in a sensitive and humane way to do the best for parents and children. This decision is all about moving children forward.”
He added: ”I would like to commend the laudable efforts made by the school community and in particular, Father Marcus Stock and the Diocesan Schools Commission.“
The council will publish statutory notices at the school and in the local press for a six-week period, beginning on 16 March and running to 27 April. This will give a further opportunity for interested parties to comment on or object to the proposals.
Bishop Wulstan School has faced difficulty for some time and there have been concerns about the school’s standards and viability. A year ago, Warwickshire County Council recommended a proposal to consult upon closure but it was withdrawn to give the Diocesan Schools Commission the opportunity to pursue other alternatives. The Diocesan Schools Commission brought forward two proposals that made use of key Government initiatives, an Academy and the ‘Fresh Start’ proposal, which was endorsed by the County Council. Both proposals were unsuccessful. After a final plea to the Government minister Lord Adonis was rejected last month, Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet agreed to consult with local people on the proposal to close the school.